Madonna defends Prince tribute

Madonna has hit back at critics who slammed her tribute to Prince at the Billboard Music Awards over the weekend.

The 'Like A Virgin' hitmaker has taken a swipe at the haters after her rendition of the legendary singer's classics 'Nothing Compares 2 U' and 'Purple Rain', which she performed at the music extravaganza at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as part of a touching tribute to the fallen star, were ripped apart.

Taking to her Instagram account on Monday night (23.05.16) - the day after the event - the 57-year-old beauty uploaded a photograph of her adorned in a purple floral flared jumpsuit, a feather boa and a leather bag with 'dealer' printed on it.

She accompanied the striking image with the caption: "Anyone who wants to do a tribute to Prince is welcome to. Whatever your age Gender or skin Color. If you loved him and he inspired you then show it!!!! I love Prince 4 ever (sic)"

Madonna, who wore a purple sequinned suit and held a cane with cross symbols for her tribute, came under fire after her renditions failed to strike a chord with spectators.

However, the 'Music' singer - who was joined on stage by Stevie Wonder as they duetted on 'Purple Rain' - was completely unaware at the time the audience were less than impressed with her touching tribute to Prince.

She said after her performance: "Thank you Prince Rogers Nelson for all you have given us."

Meanwhile, Madonna wasn't the only one to honour the late star at the Billboard Music Awards on Sunday (22.05.16) as The Weeknd also referred to him as his "inspiration" as he picked up the Top Hot 100 Artist gong.

The 'Can't Feel My Face' hitmaker - who secured eight awards in total at the ceremony - said at the time: "I want to dedicate this award to the late, great Prince. Rest in peace. I love him so much. I didn't know him but he was very close to me. He'll always be an inspiration."

Prince tragically passed away on April 21 at his Paisley Park estate in Minnesota.